2015 NBA Mock Draft: Post NBA Draft Edition

By
Evan Caulfield on
June 29, 2014

With the 2014 NBA Draft officially over, why not project where some of the top prospects in next year’s draft could go?

And while this upcoming draft may not be filled with as many star-studded players compared to last year, it does hold a remarkable number of elite big men, with the potential to become future stars in a league that’s particularly deprived in that position.

So without further ado, let me go ahead and introduce you to the crop of prospects headlining the 2015 NBA Draft.

1. Milwaukee Bucks: Jahlil Okafor, Duke, 6’11”, C

The powerful big man from Chicago already has the size (270 lbs.) to compete with NBA centers from day one. And while his athleticism leaves much to be desired, he makes up for it with an arsenal of low post moves that allow him to score with ease.

2. Philadelphia 76ers: Emmanuel Mudiay, SMU, 6’5″, PG

Speedy floor general that uses his super hero like athleticism to tower over the toughest defenders. Just imagine a taller version of Thunder point guard Russell Westbrook.

3. Orlando Magic: Cliff Alexander, Kansas, 6’9″, PF

Hard nosed power forward that explodes over opponents by using his insane hops. He’s also an excellent defender, swatting shots away and grabbing rebounds regularly.

4. Utah Jazz: Kelly Oubre, Kansas, 6’7″, SF

Explosive scorer that has the ability to drain shots from behind the perimeter or slash inside and throw down thunderous dunks. He recently scored 52 points in a game, a record for his high school.

5. Boston Celtics: Myles Turner, Texas, 7’0″, PF/C

Unique stretch four that can drain three pointers or post up and power his way inside. Although he’s incredibly skilled, he still needs to bulk up if he’s to succeed against larger big men in college.

6. Los Angeles Lakers: Stanley Johnson, Arizona, 6’7″, SF

Lengthy wing that doesn’t shy away from contact and drives over defenders like a bull. Considered more of a point forward since he moves the ball fluidly and can rack up assists in a hurry.

7. Sacramento Kings: Karl Towns, Kentucky, 7’1″, C

Long big man with an extremely skilled offensive game. Needs to develop more toughness, as he tends to shy away from banging in the paint.

8. Detroit Pistons: Brice Johnson, UNC, 6’9″, PF

Johnson didn’t play much last year since he was stuck behind James McAdoo in the frontcourt. He possesses extreme athleticism and length, however it remains to be seen if he can put it all together.

9. Cleveland Cavaliers: Trey Lyles, Kentucky, 6’9″, PF

Bruising power forward that makes up for his lack of athleticism with a fluid offensive game. Reminds many scouts of a Carlos Boozer type player that wreaks havoc offensively but can be a liability on defense.

10. New Orleans Pelicans: Wayne Selden, Kansas, 6’5″, SG

Minutes were sparse for Selden, who was stuck behind Andrew Wiggins for the majority of the year. His size and athleticism alone should allow him to put up big numbers this season.

11. New York Knicks: Chris Walker, Florida, 6’9″, PF/SF

Eligibility issues haunted Walker for the majority of the year, causing him to miss a good chunk of games. Look for him to explode on draft boards next season, as his explosiveness and quickness will be too tough for most opposing forwards to contain.

12. Denver Nuggets: Mario Hezonja, Croatia, 6’6″, SG

One of the top international prospects in his class, possessing excellent court vision, superb athleticism and a lethal three point jumper.

Extremely athletic and active defender that can cause problems for opponents. Needs to improve his shooting touch if he’s to become an exceptional offensive player though.

14. Phoenix Suns: Montrezl Harrell, Louisville, 6’8″, PF

Harrell emerged onto draft boards last season after showcasing his insane physicality in the paint and elite defense. His heart makes up for his lack of size, as he’s drawn comparisons to legendary big man Ben Wallace.